FAQs
What is a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist is a doctoral-level mental health professional trained to understand emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties. Clinical Psychologists are trained in a range of evidence-based therapies and draw upon psychological theory, research and formulation to understand a person's unique experiences. My aim is not simply to reduce symptoms, but to develop a deeper understanding of the factors that may be contributing to current difficulties and support meaningful, lasting change.
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What difficulties do you work with?
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I work with adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, self-criticism, low self-esteem and challenges relating to identity or belonging. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals who are living with the effects of childhood trauma and adverse life experiences.
What is trauma-informed therapy?
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Trauma-informed therapy recognises that many emotional and psychological difficulties can be understood in the context of past experiences. Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?", trauma-informed therapy asks "What has happened to you?" Together, we explore how past experiences may continue to influence thoughts, emotions, relationships and patterns of behaviour in the present, while working towards recovery, self-understanding and greater emotional freedom.
How is your approach different?
I believe that therapy should be tailored to the individual rather than fitting people into a predefined model. My work is informed by a range of therapeutic approaches and places particular emphasis on understanding the whole person, including their history, relationships, culture, values, identity and lived experiences. I aim to create a space where people feel understood, respected and able to explore difficult experiences at a pace that feels manageable.
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How do culture and identity influence therapy?
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Our experiences are shaped by the communities, cultures and identities we belong to. Factors such as ethnicity, race, religion, gender, family expectations and experiences of inclusion or exclusion can have a significant impact on mental health and wellbeing. I aim to create a culturally informed therapeutic space where these aspects of identity can be explored openly and thoughtfully when they are important to the work.
Do you offer online therapy?
Yes. I offer therapy online to adults across the UK. Many people find online therapy convenient and effective, allowing them to access support from the comfort of their own home. Online sessions are conducted through a secure platform and offer the same level of care, confidentiality and professionalism as in-person work.
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What happens in the first session?
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The first session is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another. We will explore what has brought you to therapy, any relevant background information and what you hope to gain from the process. It is also a chance for you to ask questions and consider whether I feel like the right fit for you. There is no expectation to share everything immediately; therapy develops over time and at a pace that feels comfortable.
How long does therapy last?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people seek support around a specific difficulty and benefit from shorter-term work, while others choose to engage in longer-term therapy to explore more complex or longstanding issues. The length of therapy will depend on your goals, circumstances and preferences, and we will regularly review progress together.
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Is therapy confidential?
Confidentiality is a fundamental part of psychological therapy. Information shared within sessions will be treated confidentially, with a small number of exceptions relating to significant concerns about safety, legal requirements or professional obligations. These limits will be discussed clearly at the outset so that you understand how your information is managed.
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Do I need to be in crisis to be in therapy?
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Not at all. Many people seek therapy because they want to understand themselves better, improve relationships, process difficult life experiences or develop greater emotional wellbeing. You do not need to wait until things feel overwhelming before reaching out for support. Therapy can be valuable at many different stages of life.